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Understanding Cancer: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

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S

Safiya Abdi

12/14/2025

Science

cancer

78

Dec 14, 2025

57 pages

Understanding Cancer: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

S

Safiya Abdi

@afiyabdi_ellt

Cancer is a complex group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled... Show more

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CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Cancer By The Numbers

Cancer impacts millions of lives in the United States. Only about 7.5% of all cancers are actually inherited, meaning most cases develop from environmental factors and lifestyle choices throughout a person's life.

An estimated 42% of cancer cases in the U.S. might be preventable through lifestyle modifications like avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol consumption.

Today, there are approximately 15 million American cancer survivors, showing the progress made in treatment. However, about 39% of Americans will develop some form of cancer during their lifetime, highlighting why understanding this disease is so important.

With over 100 different types of cancer affecting various body tissues and organs, cancer is not a single disease but rather a collection of related diseases with common characteristics.

Did you know? While cancer sounds scary, nearly half of all cancer cases could potentially be prevented through lifestyle choices and early screening!

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Cancer Prevalence and Incidence

Cancer impacts different populations in unique ways. For men in the U.S., the four most common cancers are prostate, lung, colorectal, and bladder cancers. Women most frequently develop breast, lung, colorectal, and uterine cancers.

Lung cancer is responsible for the most cancer deaths in the United States, followed by colorectal, pancreatic, and breast cancer. These top four deadliest cancer sites claim thousands of lives annually.

The National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program provides comprehensive data on cancer statistics across the country. This resource tracks both incidence rates (new cases) and death rates for all major cancer types.

When evaluating a specific cancer diagnosis like Vanessa's colorectal cancer, understanding both incidence and mortality rates helps doctors assess the overall prognosis and treatment options.

Important: Cancer incidence rates can vary significantly by age, sex, race, ethnicity, and geographic location - knowing these patterns helps guide screening recommendations and prevention efforts.

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Rising Colorectal Cancer in Young Adults

Something alarming is happening with colorectal cancer - it's increasingly affecting younger people. Looking at data from 2000 to 2009, cases of colorectal cancer in people under age 50 have been steadily rising, even while rates for older adults have declined.

The graph shows a troubling upward trend in young-onset colorectal cancer, increasing from about 5.6 to 6.8 cases per 100,000 population over just a decade. This represents approximately a 20% increase in this age group.

Meanwhile, colorectal cancer rates in people over age 50 have shown the opposite pattern, decreasing from about 200 to 150 cases per 100,000 population during the same period. This decline is likely due to increased screening in older adults.

This contrasting pattern has prompted medical professionals to call for action, including reevaluating screening guidelines and investigating why younger people are developing this disease at higher rates.

Research alert: The American Cancer Society now recommends starting colorectal cancer screening at age 45 instead of 50 in response to this concerning trend in younger adults.

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Preventable Cancers

An eye-opening fact: over 42% of cancer cases could potentially be prevented through lifestyle modifications. Understanding the major causes of preventable cancers gives us power to reduce our risk.

Smoking remains the leading preventable cause, responsible for 19% of all cancer cases. This includes not just lung cancer, but also cancers of the throat, mouth, pancreas, bladder, and more.

Obesity ranks as the second major contributor at 7.8%, linked to at least 13 different types of cancer. Alcohol consumption accounts for 5.6% of cases, while UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds causes 4.7%.

Other preventable factors include physical inactivity (2.9%) and poor diet (1.9%). Making changes in these areas can significantly reduce cancer risk over a lifetime.

Take action: Even small lifestyle changes can have a big impact on your cancer risk - quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and protecting your skin from the sun are three powerful steps you can take today.

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Cancer Prevention

Much cancer research focuses on identifying and avoiding agents that cause cancer, known as carcinogens. Different carcinogens tend to target specific organs and tissues in the body.

Environmental exposures play a significant role in cancer development. For example, ultraviolet radiation from sunlight is strongly linked to skin cancer, while inhaled carcinogens in cigarette smoke primarily affect the lungs.

Dietary choices can also influence cancer risk. Smoked foods contain compounds that may increase the risk of stomach and intestinal cancers. Similarly, food contaminated with mildewed grain can contain toxins that target the liver.

Infectious agents represent another major pathway to cancer. The human papillomavirus (HPV) transmitted through unprotected sex is the primary cause of cervical cancer. Certain other viruses can lead to lymphomas affecting the thymus and lymph nodes.

Prevention tip: Avoiding known carcinogens like tobacco smoke, excessive UV exposure, and certain infectious agents can significantly reduce your lifetime cancer risk.

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Early Detection of Cancer

Detecting cancer early dramatically improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. Different cancer types require different screening approaches, with varying recommendations by age, gender, and risk factors.

For breast cancer, women at average risk should begin annual mammograms at age 45. After age 55, they can switch to screening every two years or continue yearly if desired.

Cervical cancer screening should start at age 25 with an HPV test every 5 years. For lung cancer, screening with low-dose CT scans is recommended for those with significant smoking history, starting at age 50.

Prostate cancer screening considerations begin at age 50 for average-risk men, but earlier (age 45) for high-risk individuals including African Americans and those with family history. The screening includes both digital rectal examination and PSA blood testing.

Early detection saves lives: Following recommended screening guidelines for your age, gender, and risk factors is one of the most powerful steps you can take to protect yourself from advanced cancer.

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Cancer Screening Recommendations

Following established screening guidelines is crucial for early detection. For breast cancer, women ages 45-54 should get mammograms annually, while those 55+ can consider switching to every other year.

Cervical cancer prevention has improved with HPV testing. Women aged 25-65 should have a primary HPV test every 5 years. This test looks for high-risk types of human papillomavirus that can lead to cervical cancer.

Lung cancer screening recommendations target high-risk individuals - those aged 50-80 who currently smoke or have quit within 15 years and have at least a 20 pack-year history. The screening uses low-dose CT scans.

For prostate cancer, screening recommendations vary by risk level. Men at average risk should discuss screening at age 50, while high-risk men (including African Americans and those with family history) should begin discussions earlier, at age 45 or even 40.

Remember: These are general guidelines from the American Cancer Society. Your doctor may recommend different screening schedules based on your personal health history and risk factors.

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Colorectal Cancer Screening Guidelines

The American Cancer Society recommends that adults at average risk begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45 - earlier than previous guidelines. This change reflects the rising rates of colorectal cancer in younger adults.

For adults aged 45-75, regular screening is strongly recommended. Several testing options are available, including stool-based tests that look for signs of cancer in a person's stool and visual exams like colonoscopy that directly examine the colon and rectum.

Adults aged 76-85 should make screening decisions in consultation with their doctors, considering their overall health, screening history, and personal preferences. After age 85, routine screening is no longer recommended.

The most important thing isn't which test you choose, but that you get tested. All positive results on non-colonoscopy screening tests should be followed up with a colonoscopy to complete the screening process.

Screening works: Regular colorectal cancer screening is one of the most powerful tools for preventing colorectal cancer because it can detect and remove precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer.

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Warning Signs of Cancer

Knowing the warning signs of cancer can lead to earlier detection and treatment. There are seven key symptoms that should prompt a conversation with your doctor.

Changes in bowel or bladder habits that persist, such as constipation, diarrhea, or a change in the size of your stool, may signal colorectal or bladder cancer. Similarly, unusual bleeding or discharge from any body opening requires medical attention.

A sore that doesn't heal after several weeks could indicate skin cancer, while a thickening or lump in the breast or elsewhere might be a tumor. Difficulty swallowing or persistent indigestion could point to cancers of the esophagus, stomach, or throat.

An obvious change in a wart or mole, particularly in size, shape, or color, is a warning sign for skin cancer. Finally, a nagging cough or hoarseness that doesn't go away might indicate lung or throat cancer.

Act promptly: If you notice any of these warning signs, don't wait - schedule an appointment with your doctor. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes for most cancers.

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Pathophysiology of Cancer

Cancer develops when normal cellular regulation breaks down. The American Cancer Society defines cancer as "a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells."

Two major dysfunctions drive cancer development. First, defective cell proliferation occurs when cells multiply without the normal controls that limit growth. These cancer cells don't respond to signals that would normally stop division.

Second, defective cell differentiation means cancer cells fail to mature into specialized cells with specific functions. Instead, they remain in an immature state, continuing to divide and spread.

Understanding these fundamental dysfunctions helps explain why cancer cells behave differently from normal cells and provides the foundation for developing treatments that target these abnormal processes.

Cancer basics: At its core, cancer is a disease of abnormal cellular behavior, where cells grow uncontrollably and lose their normal specialized functions.



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This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

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Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

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iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

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Android user

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Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

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This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

 

Science

78

Dec 14, 2025

57 pages

Understanding Cancer: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

S

Safiya Abdi

@afiyabdi_ellt

Cancer is a complex group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and spread of abnormal cells. Understanding the basics of cancer prevalence, prevention, detection, and treatment options is crucial for anyone wanting to grasp this major health challenge affecting... Show more

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Cancer By The Numbers

Cancer impacts millions of lives in the United States. Only about 7.5% of all cancers are actually inherited, meaning most cases develop from environmental factors and lifestyle choices throughout a person's life.

An estimated 42% of cancer cases in the U.S. might be preventable through lifestyle modifications like avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol consumption.

Today, there are approximately 15 million American cancer survivors, showing the progress made in treatment. However, about 39% of Americans will develop some form of cancer during their lifetime, highlighting why understanding this disease is so important.

With over 100 different types of cancer affecting various body tissues and organs, cancer is not a single disease but rather a collection of related diseases with common characteristics.

Did you know? While cancer sounds scary, nearly half of all cancer cases could potentially be prevented through lifestyle choices and early screening!

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Cancer Prevalence and Incidence

Cancer impacts different populations in unique ways. For men in the U.S., the four most common cancers are prostate, lung, colorectal, and bladder cancers. Women most frequently develop breast, lung, colorectal, and uterine cancers.

Lung cancer is responsible for the most cancer deaths in the United States, followed by colorectal, pancreatic, and breast cancer. These top four deadliest cancer sites claim thousands of lives annually.

The National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program provides comprehensive data on cancer statistics across the country. This resource tracks both incidence rates (new cases) and death rates for all major cancer types.

When evaluating a specific cancer diagnosis like Vanessa's colorectal cancer, understanding both incidence and mortality rates helps doctors assess the overall prognosis and treatment options.

Important: Cancer incidence rates can vary significantly by age, sex, race, ethnicity, and geographic location - knowing these patterns helps guide screening recommendations and prevention efforts.

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

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Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Rising Colorectal Cancer in Young Adults

Something alarming is happening with colorectal cancer - it's increasingly affecting younger people. Looking at data from 2000 to 2009, cases of colorectal cancer in people under age 50 have been steadily rising, even while rates for older adults have declined.

The graph shows a troubling upward trend in young-onset colorectal cancer, increasing from about 5.6 to 6.8 cases per 100,000 population over just a decade. This represents approximately a 20% increase in this age group.

Meanwhile, colorectal cancer rates in people over age 50 have shown the opposite pattern, decreasing from about 200 to 150 cases per 100,000 population during the same period. This decline is likely due to increased screening in older adults.

This contrasting pattern has prompted medical professionals to call for action, including reevaluating screening guidelines and investigating why younger people are developing this disease at higher rates.

Research alert: The American Cancer Society now recommends starting colorectal cancer screening at age 45 instead of 50 in response to this concerning trend in younger adults.

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Preventable Cancers

An eye-opening fact: over 42% of cancer cases could potentially be prevented through lifestyle modifications. Understanding the major causes of preventable cancers gives us power to reduce our risk.

Smoking remains the leading preventable cause, responsible for 19% of all cancer cases. This includes not just lung cancer, but also cancers of the throat, mouth, pancreas, bladder, and more.

Obesity ranks as the second major contributor at 7.8%, linked to at least 13 different types of cancer. Alcohol consumption accounts for 5.6% of cases, while UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds causes 4.7%.

Other preventable factors include physical inactivity (2.9%) and poor diet (1.9%). Making changes in these areas can significantly reduce cancer risk over a lifetime.

Take action: Even small lifestyle changes can have a big impact on your cancer risk - quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and protecting your skin from the sun are three powerful steps you can take today.

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Cancer Prevention

Much cancer research focuses on identifying and avoiding agents that cause cancer, known as carcinogens. Different carcinogens tend to target specific organs and tissues in the body.

Environmental exposures play a significant role in cancer development. For example, ultraviolet radiation from sunlight is strongly linked to skin cancer, while inhaled carcinogens in cigarette smoke primarily affect the lungs.

Dietary choices can also influence cancer risk. Smoked foods contain compounds that may increase the risk of stomach and intestinal cancers. Similarly, food contaminated with mildewed grain can contain toxins that target the liver.

Infectious agents represent another major pathway to cancer. The human papillomavirus (HPV) transmitted through unprotected sex is the primary cause of cervical cancer. Certain other viruses can lead to lymphomas affecting the thymus and lymph nodes.

Prevention tip: Avoiding known carcinogens like tobacco smoke, excessive UV exposure, and certain infectious agents can significantly reduce your lifetime cancer risk.

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Early Detection of Cancer

Detecting cancer early dramatically improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. Different cancer types require different screening approaches, with varying recommendations by age, gender, and risk factors.

For breast cancer, women at average risk should begin annual mammograms at age 45. After age 55, they can switch to screening every two years or continue yearly if desired.

Cervical cancer screening should start at age 25 with an HPV test every 5 years. For lung cancer, screening with low-dose CT scans is recommended for those with significant smoking history, starting at age 50.

Prostate cancer screening considerations begin at age 50 for average-risk men, but earlier (age 45) for high-risk individuals including African Americans and those with family history. The screening includes both digital rectal examination and PSA blood testing.

Early detection saves lives: Following recommended screening guidelines for your age, gender, and risk factors is one of the most powerful steps you can take to protect yourself from advanced cancer.

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Cancer Screening Recommendations

Following established screening guidelines is crucial for early detection. For breast cancer, women ages 45-54 should get mammograms annually, while those 55+ can consider switching to every other year.

Cervical cancer prevention has improved with HPV testing. Women aged 25-65 should have a primary HPV test every 5 years. This test looks for high-risk types of human papillomavirus that can lead to cervical cancer.

Lung cancer screening recommendations target high-risk individuals - those aged 50-80 who currently smoke or have quit within 15 years and have at least a 20 pack-year history. The screening uses low-dose CT scans.

For prostate cancer, screening recommendations vary by risk level. Men at average risk should discuss screening at age 50, while high-risk men (including African Americans and those with family history) should begin discussions earlier, at age 45 or even 40.

Remember: These are general guidelines from the American Cancer Society. Your doctor may recommend different screening schedules based on your personal health history and risk factors.

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Colorectal Cancer Screening Guidelines

The American Cancer Society recommends that adults at average risk begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45 - earlier than previous guidelines. This change reflects the rising rates of colorectal cancer in younger adults.

For adults aged 45-75, regular screening is strongly recommended. Several testing options are available, including stool-based tests that look for signs of cancer in a person's stool and visual exams like colonoscopy that directly examine the colon and rectum.

Adults aged 76-85 should make screening decisions in consultation with their doctors, considering their overall health, screening history, and personal preferences. After age 85, routine screening is no longer recommended.

The most important thing isn't which test you choose, but that you get tested. All positive results on non-colonoscopy screening tests should be followed up with a colonoscopy to complete the screening process.

Screening works: Regular colorectal cancer screening is one of the most powerful tools for preventing colorectal cancer because it can detect and remove precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer.

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Warning Signs of Cancer

Knowing the warning signs of cancer can lead to earlier detection and treatment. There are seven key symptoms that should prompt a conversation with your doctor.

Changes in bowel or bladder habits that persist, such as constipation, diarrhea, or a change in the size of your stool, may signal colorectal or bladder cancer. Similarly, unusual bleeding or discharge from any body opening requires medical attention.

A sore that doesn't heal after several weeks could indicate skin cancer, while a thickening or lump in the breast or elsewhere might be a tumor. Difficulty swallowing or persistent indigestion could point to cancers of the esophagus, stomach, or throat.

An obvious change in a wart or mole, particularly in size, shape, or color, is a warning sign for skin cancer. Finally, a nagging cough or hoarseness that doesn't go away might indicate lung or throat cancer.

Act promptly: If you notice any of these warning signs, don't wait - schedule an appointment with your doctor. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes for most cancers.

CANCER
BY
THE
NUMBERS

7.5%
Average
percentage of
cancers that
are inherited

Source: American Cancer Society

42%
Percentage of
cancers in

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Pathophysiology of Cancer

Cancer develops when normal cellular regulation breaks down. The American Cancer Society defines cancer as "a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells."

Two major dysfunctions drive cancer development. First, defective cell proliferation occurs when cells multiply without the normal controls that limit growth. These cancer cells don't respond to signals that would normally stop division.

Second, defective cell differentiation means cancer cells fail to mature into specialized cells with specific functions. Instead, they remain in an immature state, continuing to divide and spread.

Understanding these fundamental dysfunctions helps explain why cancer cells behave differently from normal cells and provides the foundation for developing treatments that target these abnormal processes.

Cancer basics: At its core, cancer is a disease of abnormal cellular behavior, where cells grow uncontrollably and lose their normal specialized functions.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

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Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user